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Sunday, December 4, 2011

R.I.P Ken Russell

1927-2011

Legendary, controversial film director Ken Russell impacted my life with his work. So, after his recent death I feel that he deserves some recognition no matter how small.

Ken Russell caught my attention one day as I was trying to find some controversial films to watch, as I love a bit of controversy. Through searching for controversial films I discovered, which would soon be a film to enter into my top 10, even top 5, Ken Russell's 1971 masterpiece "The Devils". When I viewed this film I was intrigued by this Ken Russell, who was merely a name on a screen at the time. When I began to delve into his work, my intrigue only grew from then on.

Here is a snippet of "The Devils", the cult following which earned Ken Russell his status in the movie world.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aT_CaVUKp00&feature=player_detailpage

Before breaking through in the film industry, Russell became interested in photography. As a result of his work with photographing, Russell had many exhibitions in the late part of his life. Below are some examples of Ken Russells work:

It is clear from the work of Ken Russell, whether it be directing or photography, that he was a truly talented individual in his art.

3 of Russell's films were awarded Oscars, the films were: "Women in Love" (1969), "The Devils" (1971) and "The Who's Tommy" (1975).

Ken Russell died November 27, 2011 at the age of 84. His death was due to natural causes.

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Did You Know ?

Okay, one last Star Wars fact. The character of Yoda, who speaks backwards and with riddles of wisdom, was based on the Dalai Lama.

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Michael Jackson was a very big fan of Harry Potter and proposed the idea of a musical spin-off to author J.K. Rowling. Rowling declined as she felt that the idea of a musical could damage the success of the franchise.

The actor who portrayed Professor Flitwick in Harry Potter also played an Ewok in "Star Wars VI: Return of the Jedi". With a filmography of Harry Potter and Star Wars under his belt it is surprising that he has not been chosen for more oppurtunities in the movie world.

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